Horse Illustrated Magazine

Time To Ride®, the equine industry initiative created to encourage and champion the growth of the U.S. horse industry, is pleased to announce that the fifth annual National Meet A Horse Day is Saturday, July 21, 2018.

Since its inception, National Meet A Horse Day has traditionally been held on a Saturday in July, taking advantage of the more leisurely days of summer when families are looking for fun and different activities.

“Designating one special day creates extra enthusiasm among barn owners and equine organizations to hold events that give newcomers the opportunity to meet a horse one-on-one,” said Molly O’Brien, Time To Ride Program Manager. “National Meet A Horse Day brings all of us together to help non-horse people experience the joy and beauty that horses bring to life.

“Time To Ride is celebrating National Meet A Horse Day by participating with the American Horse Council at the USDA Farmers Market on the National Mall in Washington, DC on July 20,” O’Brien continued. “Horses from the National Park Service and the Caisson Platoon will be in attendance, and there will be face-painting and giveaways for the children who visit our booth.”

All barn owners, instructors, non-profit organizations and clubs are encouraged to celebrate National Meet A Horse Day by hosting an event, and to consider enrolling in Time To Ride. Enrollment is free and provides access to a wide variety of marketing materials and tips on promoting and holding successful activities, plus the opportunity to win cash and prizes for attracting the most newcomers. The 2018 Time To Ride Challenge runs through November 15, and Phase 2 events, where newcomers return for a more in-depth horse experience such as a riding or ground lesson, runs through December 15.

Since 2014, Time To Ride has introduced over 100,000 newcomers to the benefits and joys of horses. To learn more about Time To Ride and becoming a Challenge host please visit www.timetoride.com, email info@timetoride.com, or call 512-591-7811.